Hiring a Personal Trainer at a Personal Training Studio vs. Gym
Should you train at a personal training studio or a gym?
If you’re interested in working with a personal trainer to kickstart your fitness journey, you might be wondering whether it’s better to hire a trainer at a gym or at a personal training studio. Although both have their merits, there are a few reasons why gym personal training might be a better choice – here’s why.
What you’ll get at a personal training studio
Personal training studios are smaller fitness facilities that offer individual and group training sessions. At these places, you’ll find certified personal trainers who can help create a personalized wellness program based on your needs and fitness goals.
Each studio is different – and some specialize in certain types of fitness – but generally speaking, they’ll usually have strength equipment (including free weights and weight machines), cardio equipment, and open floor space.
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How gyms and fitness clubs approach personal training
When compared to personal training studios, gyms and fitness clubs tend to be larger facilities with more equipment, staff, and amenities. For example, Columbia Association (CA) has three fitness centers in Columbia, each of which has thousands of square feet of cardio and weight workout space. Plus, with a CA membership, you can visit these gyms on your own time and implement the lessons that you’ve learned from your personal trainer.
Like personal training studios, gyms employ accredited trainers who will work with you to understand what you’re hoping to achieve and, based on those conversations, provide expert fitness and nutritional guidance to help you get there. During your personalized coaching sessions, gym personal trainers will guide you through exercises, provide feedback on your form, and offer valuable health advice that you can incorporate into your daily life.
It isn’t always the case, but since gyms are usually bigger than private personal training studios, they often have a larger roster of personal trainers – with various specialties, certifications, and areas of expertise. Because of this, gyms can be easier places to find a personal trainer who’s a good match for your interest, lifestyle, and goals.
On top of that, gyms also offer other benefits, such as:
- Group classes and other options for staying fit
- Discounts on personal training for club members
- More flexible opening hours (some studios are open by appointment only or closed on weekends)
- Other amenities, including pools, saunas, and sports courts
- Childcare facilities, like CA’s KidSpace
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Personal training at CA
At CA, we believe that personal training is just that – personal. While we have all of the facilities and amenities of a large-scale fitness club, our friendly and knowledgeable trainers take an individualized approach to training, so you can stay on track and safely reach your goals.
Learn more about our one-on-one and group personal training sessions, or contact us today to get started. Whether you’re a CA member or not, you’re welcome to begin your personal training journey at one of our three Columbia fitness centers (and if you’re a member, we’ll even give you a discount on your training sessions).
